DVD chain Xtra-vision has backed down and reversed a controversial policy that forced people who pre-ordered their Xbox One console to buy an additional game valued at more than €50.
It emerged that since the Xbox One went on sale on Friday, game fans were given the choice of either handing over the extra €50 or, if they chose not to buy the extra game, to get a refund for their down payment on the console.
The decision to implement the policy is understood to have followed a problem with Microsoft over pricing.
However, adverse publicity and public outrage has forced the retailer to reverse the policy.
“In response to the situation regarding pre-orders of XBox One consoles in Xtra-vision stores, Xtra-vision can confirm that from today (Tuesday, 26 November) onwards, any person who collects their pre-ordered XBox One console at any Xtra-vision store will not have to purchase an additional game in order to receive their console,” the retailer said.
For customers who were already forced to buy an extra game there was good news.
“Customers who have already collected their XBox One console and purchased an additional game can return the unopened game to the Xtra-vision branch where the purchase was made between November 22 and November 26, and the cost of the game will be refunded on presentation of proof of purchase.
“Xtra-vision regrets any upset or inconvenience that may have been caused to customers. We can confirm that customers who have pre-ordered PlayStation 4 consoles will not have to purchase an additional game in order to receive their console,” Xtra-vision said.
